Since 1978, the father-and-son team of Fred and Fritz Scherz of Verona both picked up their accordions and did just that, combining polka standards and original songs.

But Fred passed away late in 2009 after a gallant battle with cancer.

Fritz wasn't having fun anymore.

"I honestly thought about putting FPB to rest after my dad passed away," Fritz Scherz says, "just because of how much of an impact he had, not only on stage but also during our travels, and, of course, on my overall life. A guy like him can't be replaced.

"But, prior to him passing away, he encouraged me to keep the band going," Fritz says. "Very unselfish of him, I'd say. But, there are many times when playing certain songs, especially those he wrote, that I have to fight to keep it together."

That he does, and the band will have 119 shows for the year under its belt for 2010 -- with more coming, possibly.

"The legacy is very important, which is why I always try to incorporate some of the songs my Dad wrote into our playlists," Fritz says.